'Hannah Montana' actress Miley Cyrus was overcome with emotion when she was named Favourite Female Singer at Nickelodeon's 22nd Annual Kids' Choice Awards on Saturday (28.03.09)

The 'Hannah Montana' star was overcome with emotion when she beat Beyonce Knowles, Alicia Keys and Rihanna to be named Favourite Female Singer at the ceremony, which was held at the University of California, Los Angeles' Pauley Pavilion on Saturday (28.03.09).

Praising the fans who vote for the winners, she said: "I really thought I was going to lose, so thank you guys. I'm so excited. I know this isn't like the Oscars, but it's still amazing because unlike any other awards show, it's all because of you guys."

'High School Musical 3: Senior Year' star Vanessa Hudgens picked up the Favourite Female Actress accolade, while the film was voted Favourite Movie.

Zac Efron took to the stage to accept the film's award, saying: "Lately, a lot of people have been taking credit for bringing back the musical. The truth is, we've known who's been responsible for bringing back the musical all along. It was you guys!"

Just as important as the winners were those who got covered in green slime while on the stage, with Favourite Male Singer Jesse McCartney and presenters Sandra Bullock and Hugh Jackman getting gunged this year.

Other winners included Will Smith who was named Favourite Male Actor, the Jonas Brothers who won Favourite Group and Beyonce's 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)' which was voted Favourite Song.

Jack Black thrilled the audience by picking up the Favourite Voice gong - for his part as Po in animated movie 'Kung Fu Panda ' - in a motorcycle sidecar.

Leonardo DiCaprio was handed the first ever Big Green Help Award for his environmental work by Cameron Diaz.

He said: "Do you like this planet that we live on? Is this an awesome place to live or what? Well, it's the only place we've got. We need all of you, the next generation, to take action. In fact, I bet someone watching this very show tonight will be a part of the solution to global warming."

The awards are decided by viewers of children's TV network Nickelodeon, with a record 90 million votes being cast.